Mumbai: Indian squash sensation Anahat Singh has etched her name into the record books by becoming the first Indian in two decades to reach the World Junior Squash Championship final. The talented Delhi-based player achieved the milestone after defeating Egypt’s Barb Sameh in the women’s singles semifinal on Friday.
Top-seeded Anahat produced an impressive performance to overcome the third/fourth seed 11-3, 8-11, 11-4, 11-6, securing her place in the championship clash. She is the first Indian to reach the final since Joshna Chinappa accomplished the feat in 2005.
Having finished with a bronze medal after reaching the semifinals last year, the World No. 20 has now moved a step closer to making history as the first Indian to win the prestigious World Junior Squash Championship title.
Reflecting on her victory, Anahat said she was delighted with her performance, especially after a challenging outing in the previous round.
“I’m really happy. I played Barb a few months ago at the British Junior Open, and it was a close match, so I knew I had to perform at my best. I wasn’t at my best yesterday, but today I wanted to show what I’m capable of on court,” she said.
The 17-year-old also spoke about the significance of reaching her maiden World Junior final after multiple attempts.
“I’ve played in four World Juniors and previously lost in the quarterfinals and semifinals. Reaching the final has made my parents and coaches very happy, but the job isn’t finished yet,” she added.
Anahat will now face Egypt’s second seed Ruqayya Salem in the title match. A victory would see her become the first Indian-ever to lift the World Junior Squash Championship trophy, marking a landmark achievement for Indian squash.
With confidence, experience, and strong form on her side, Anahat heads into the final carrying the hopes of the nation as she aims to script another historic chapter in Indian sporting history.
Follow us on Twitter, Google News, and Instagram and like us on Facebook for the latest updates and exciting stories.
